Accident Overview
After taking off from a canal, a float plane was cruising approximately 500 feet above a swamp when its engine suddenly stopped. The pilot executed a forced landing in the swamp below.
Post-Accident Inspection
Following the landing, the pilot examined the engine and found water present in the gascolator and in the fuel line between the gascolator and the carburetor. The airplane was equipped with long-range fuel tanks that featured flush-fitting fuel filler caps.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported having experienced previous problems with water in the fuel. No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other specifics.
Findings
The presence of water in the fuel system was identified as the direct cause of the engine failure. The investigation did not specify any additional factors or contributing circumstances.